In 1930, Elson was hired by the Chicago White Sox to be their play-by-play announcer, a role he held for over three decades. His distinctive voice and engaging commentary style made him a favorite among baseball fans. He was known for his ability to vividly describe the action on the field, making listeners feel as if they were actually at the game.
Elson's career was briefly interrupted during World War II, when he served in the U.S. Navy. After the war, he returned to broadcasting and continued to cover the White Sox games. In addition to his work with the White Sox, Elson also broadcast games for the Chicago Cubs and the Oakland Athletics.
Throughout his career, Elson received numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to sports broadcasting. In 1979, he was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, receiving the Ford C. Frick Award for major contributions to baseball broadcasting. He was also inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1999.
Elson's career spanned over five decades, during which he became one of the most recognized and respected voices in sports broadcasting. He passed away on March 10, 1981, leaving behind a legacy that continues to influence the field of sports broadcasting.
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58 minutes
1981
In this 1981 audio clip, we are taken on a journey through the illustrious career...
Announcer Bob Elson Remembered - Radio Broadcaster / In this 1981 audio clip, we are taken on a journey through the illustrious career of legendary radio broadcaster Bob Elson. The year 1981 marked a significant period in Elson's career as he had already spent over five decades in the business, lending his voice to some of the most memorable moments in baseball history. Known for his straightforward yet captivating style, Elson's broadcasts were a staple in American households, making baseball more than just a sport, but a shared experience.
Across the microphone, we hear the voice of the interviewer, an anonymous radio professional who expertly guides the conversation, giving Elson the space to reminisce about his classic calls. The interviewer, though less known, plays a crucial role in this clip, providing a platform for Elson to share his experiences and insights from his long-standing career. This audio clip serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Bob Elson, a man whose voice became synonymous with the game of baseball itself.
3 hours
Sep 2, 1967Sep 2, 1967
On a crisp Saturday, September 2, 1967, the Chicago White Sox faced off...
Chicago White Sox vs Boston Red Sox - Radio Broadcast / On a crisp Saturday, September 2, 1967, the Chicago White Sox faced off against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park. the White Sox were led by pitcher Joe Horlen, who was having a stellar season with a 14-6 record at the time. the Red Sox countered with their own star, Jim Lonborg, who was enjoying an 18-6 season. the 1967 season was a pivotal one for both teams, with the White Sox looking to improve their standing in the American League and the Red Sox in the midst of the "Impossible Dream" season, where they were making a strong push towards the World Series after finishing ninth the previous year. the league was buzzing with anticipation, as the Red Sox's Carl Yastrzemski was on track for a Triple Crown season, a feat not achieved since 1947.
the game started with a bang for the White Sox, who scored three runs in the first inning, led by Rocky Colavito's double that drove in two runs. the Red Sox defense, usually reliable, faltered in the first inning, leading to an early deficit. the Red Sox managed to get on the board in the fourth inning with a run driven in by Ken Harrelson, but the White Sox's pitching held them in check for the rest of the game. Horlen, in particular, was masterful, scattering six hits over nine innings while striking out four. the White Sox added an insurance run in the sixth inning, increasing their lead to 4-1.
As the game progressed, the White Sox maintained their lead, thanks to a strong performance from their bullpen. Boston's Lonborg was replaced by reliever Dan Osinski after seven innings, having given up four runs on nine hits. the White Sox's defense also stepped up, turning a key double play in the first inning to halt a potential Red Sox rally. the game ended with the White Sox victorious, 4-1, marking a significant win for the team in the late stages of the season.
In the broader context of the 1967 season, this game was a key moment. Despite the loss, the Red Sox would go on to win the American League pennant in a dramatic finish, famously known as the "Impossible Dream" season. They would eventually lose to the St. Louis Cardinals in the World Series. Yastrzemski would indeed secure the Triple Crown, leading the league in batting average, home runs, and runs batted in, a bright spot in a season filled with highs and lows. Meanwhile, the White Sox would finish fourth in the American League, a respectable finish but short of their championship aspirations.
3 hours
Jul 25, 1965Jul 25, 1965
Throughout the 1965 regular season, the White Sox and Tigers battled it out for the...
Chicago White Sox vs Detroit Tigers - Game 2 - Radio Broadcast / Throughout the 1965 regular season, the White Sox and Tigers battled it out for the top spot in the league. In August 1965, the competition intensified as both teams sought to gain an advantage heading into the final stretch of the season. Key players from both sides were instrumental in driving their respective teams' success.
The Chicago White Sox had a strong lineup led by star players like Nellie Fox, Luis Aparicio, and Eddie Fisher. They showcased a well-balanced offense and solid defense that kept them in contention throughout the season. In August, their pitching staff, including Eddie Fisher, who excelled as a closer, played a crucial role in securing important victories.
On the other hand, the Detroit Tigers, with their talented roster featuring players like Al Kaline, Willie Horton, and Mickey Lolich, were fierce competitors. Their offensive firepower and reliable pitching made them a formidable opponent. In August, the Tigers' pitching rotation, led by the impressive performances of Mickey Lolich, delivered several crucial wins that kept them in the race for the pennant.
As the season approached its final weeks, the White Sox and Tigers were neck-and-neck in the standings, making every game in August essential for their playoff aspirations. The race for the American League pennant continued to be tightly contested and captivating, with fans eagerly following every matchup between these two competitive teams.
Ultimately, the 1965 season came down to the wire, and the performances in August played a significant role in shaping the outcome. Both the Chicago White Sox and the Detroit Tigers displayed exceptional talent and determination, but only one team could claim the top spot in the American League. Fans of both teams witnessed an exciting and memorable season that would be remembered for years to come.